2 Durham cops resign before charges are dismissed

Two Durham police officers have resigned after being accused of illegally restraining and assaulting a man earlier this year.

Lt. Ryan A. Freeman and Officer Stacy L. Armstrong have left the department, the Herald-Sun of Durham (http://bit.ly/ZBwFZ1) reported.

Freeman, Armstrong and Officer Erin V. Espinola were off duty at a club when someone reportedly stole a coat, wallet, police identification and iPhone. The three officers went to a man's home to retrieve the items.

Investigators said several people pushed their way into the home. During the disturbance, a man was chased to another location, where he was allegedly assaulted.

A judge in Durham dismissed the charges against Freeman and Armstrong last week because prosecutors were not ready to proceed with the case.

Police Chief Jose Lopez said he placed the officers on administrative leave with pay after the arrests.